The Fusion of Sauna and Sustainability
In modern society, as awareness of health and the environment increases, saunas are creating new values. Traditionally cherished as a place for health promotion, saunas are now becoming part of a lifestyle that considers sustainability. Especially the “totonou” experience not only heals the mind and body but also demands an environmentally conscious approach.
In Japan, instead of high-energy-consuming dry saunas, tent saunas using wood stoves are gaining attention. This portable home sauna offers a new way to enjoy while harmonizing with the natural environment. Additionally, a new routine called “totonou 2.0” is proposed to pursue safe and deep relaxation. These efforts not only encourage healthy living habits but also serve as effective measures against global warming.
Domestically produced barrel saunas, crafted by hand using local resources, also play a part in this trend. As seen in these examples, sauna culture is beginning to hold meaning beyond mere relaxation.
“Sauna × Sustainability”: Consideration for Health and the Environment in a New Era
Saunas are loved by many as a place to relieve daily stress and refresh the mind and body. However, traditional dry saunas have high energy consumption, posing environmental challenges. Amidst this, the new trend of “Sauna × Sustainability” is gaining attention, and new ways to enjoy with an awareness of sustainability are spreading.
Barrel Saunas Utilizing Domestic Wood
In Japan, as an attempt to address the issue of declining use of domestic wood, there is the “ONE SAUNA” barrel sauna. This brand uses local wood and is handcrafted, contributing to the local economy while providing a high-quality healing space. By utilizing domestic wood, it contributes to a resource-circulating society, offering a safe and comfortable sauna experience.
Tent Sauna: Coexistence with Nature
When considering energy efficiency and carbon dioxide emission reduction, “tent saunas” are an effective option. This type, using wood stoves, has low dependency on electricity or gas, and energy-saving effects can be expected through self-regulated temperature management. Moreover, it can be enjoyed in harmony with natural environments like watersides, maximizing the use of limited resources. Although there may be concerns about CO2 emissions from wood burning, the amount is lower than that of typical dry saunas, making it versatile in various locations.
“Totono 2.0” and Contribution to SDGs
Proposed by the Japan Sauna & Spa Association, “totonou 2.0” aims for new safety standards and a deep relaxation experience. This concept emphasizes the importance of hydration and rest periods. It connects not only to health but also to the wise use of water resources. “Totono 2.0” contributes not only to individual health maintenance but also to the protection of a sustainable global environment.
Innovative Facility Design Using Earthbag Technology
In Onna Village, Okinawa, the facility “KUu” using advanced earthbag technology is a topic of interest. This structure, made from natural materials like earth and sand, combines high insulation and durability. The construction process requires minimal energy consumption, leading to significant carbon dioxide reduction. The fusion of science and natural materials positions it as a new form of everyday and sustainable relaxation space.
Unique Aroma Experience Using Local Materials
Another intriguing initiative is the extraction of natural aroma oils from discarded fruits. The scents obtained from such local materials can be considered a unique form of hospitality from that land. Moreover, this process itself contributes to waste reduction, making it very eco-friendly. Such ingenuity is what modern society demands.
Creating “Meaning” and “Value” for the Future
According to Professor Roberto Verganti of the Polytechnic University of Milan, cases where existing products or services are given new meaning (design-driven innovation) are factors that deeply root in people’s daily lives. Similarly, in the modern context, it is essential to establish a unique identity that continuously occupies an important position in the forefront of “meaning” creation, addressing complex issues and fulfilling essential conditions for proposal and execution.
How is the Relationship Between Sauna and Sustainability Evolving?
Recently, saunas are gaining attention not only as relaxation facilities but also as projects aiming for regional revitalization and coexistence with nature. For example, in Yamanashi Prefecture, the “Yamanashi Nature Sauna Totonoi Project” has been launched, maximizing the use of local rich natural resources. Such initiatives contribute to regional economic revitalization while also considering the environment.
What are Some Concrete Examples of Regional Revitalization Through Saunas?
In Tabayama Village, outdoor saunas have been introduced, allowing local residents and tourists to enjoy special experiences along rivers and in forests. Additionally, the “Yamanashi Nature Sauna Totonoi Project” plans experiential content using clean water, and by widely publicizing this initiative, it enhances the overall appeal of the region.
What Features Do Sauna Facilities Using the Latest Technology Have?
Recently introduced saunas like the Expo Sauna are attracting attention with keywords like “world’s first” and “cutting-edge.” These facilities utilize new technologies and incorporate diverse entertainment elements to provide a new sensory relaxation space. Such attempts offer visitors unique experiences and have the potential to establish as a next-generation lifestyle.
Why is it Popular Among Generation Z?
Sauna culture is rapidly permeating among Generation Z, thanks to diverse lifestyle proposals. Stores like “Wagamachi Sauna Osaka Noda” develop youth-oriented programs through collaborations with universities, opening up new customer bases. Additionally, products and services for women are increasing, shedding the past image of “old man culture.”
Are There Easy Ways to Enjoy at Home?
For enjoying at home, there are products like portable tents with small electric heaters that can be easily set up. Some female celebrities are also seen having dedicated spaces in their homes, indicating a growing interest in creating authentic relaxation spaces at home. However, it is necessary to pay sufficient attention to safety.
What Are the Future Prospects in Japan and Abroad?
In Japan, collaboration projects with different fields are continuously increasing, and new market creation is expected through them. Internationally, the unique style originating from Japan is also beginning to gain attention. It is expected that its charm and values will spread to more countries in the future. This trend is also believed to contribute to promoting exchanges with other countries.
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Sauna and Sustainability: Creating New Value
Saunas are gaining attention not only for health promotion but also as a lifestyle that considers environmental care. This trend offers eco-friendly options, as seen in the shift from high-energy-consuming dry saunas to tent saunas using wood stoves. Harmony with nature and the use of local resources are also being explored for new utilization methods.
In Japan, barrel saunas using domestic wood are one example. They contribute to the local economy while providing high-quality healing spaces. Additionally, the new habit called “totonou 2.0” aims to balance safety and relaxation, emphasizing the importance of hydration.
Furthermore, innovative ideas such as advanced earthbag technology and aroma oils extracted from discarded fruits are being incorporated. These initiatives contribute to a resource-circulating society while offering diverse experiential value. Such movements are spreading both domestically and internationally, becoming important elements in creating new “meaning” and “value.”
In this way, sauna culture continues to evolve through its fusion with sustainability, contributing to environmental care and individual health promotion, leading to a reevaluation of its value.